Effect of Recycled Glass Powder and Nano-Silica on the Strength and Permeability of Concrete

Abstract:

In Lima, many concrete structures experience accelerated deterioration due to physical and chemical factors, limiting their durability. This study evaluates the effect of recycled glass powder (RGP) and a nanosilica additive (1.5 %) on concrete with f’c = 27.5 MPa (280 kg/cm²), focusing on optimizing its mechanical properties, durability, and economic feasibility. Mixtures with 10 %, 15 %, and 20 % cement replacement by RGP were prepared, assessing compressive, tensile, and flexural strength, as well as permeability and water absorption. The mixture with 10 % RGP (RGP-10) showed the best early age mechanical performance, increasing compressive strength by 39.1 %, tensile strength by 12.7 %, and flexural strength by 26.2 % compared to the concrete control. Mixtures with 15 % and 20 % RGP showed lower initial strength, although future gains are expected due to delayed pozzolanic reactions. Regarding durability, RGP-10 reduced permeability by 9.02 % and water absorption by 6.45 %, while RGP-15 and RGP-20 achieved even greater reductions, with permeability decreasing by 11.48 % and 9.84 %, and water absorption by 8.68 % and 10.56 %, respectively. Although the nanosilica additive increases the initial cost, its combination with RGP produces significant improvements in mechanical properties and durability, contributing to a reduction in maintenance related costs, resulting in a durable, sustainable, and economically viable material.

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 1179)
• Pages: 111-116
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-6REzNm
• Online since: March 2026
• Authors: Donaires Hurtado Brad*, Retuerto Arce Henrry, Carlos Augusto Eyzaguirre Acosta
• Keywords: Concrete, Durability, Economic Analysis, Mechanical Strength, Nanosilica, Permeability, Recycled Glass Powder, Sustainability, Water Absorption

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